Administrative Assistant Salary in San Diego, CA
Administrative Assistant salaries in San Diego range from $43,500 to $87,000 in 2026. The mid-level median is $63,075, which is 45% above the national average.
Junior (0-2 yrs)
$43,500 – $55,100
Median: $49,300 · per year
Mid-Level (3-5 yrs)
$56,550 – $69,600
Median: $63,075 · per year
Senior (6+ yrs)
$72,500 – $87,000
Median: $79,750 · per year
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5 years
Entry level20+ years
Estimated Administrative Assistant Salary in San Diego, CA
Estimated†$64,525–$78,300/year
Median: $71,413 per year (adjusted for San Diego cost of living)
Junior
$49,300
0-2 yrs
Mid-Level
$63,075
3-5 yrs
Senior
$79,750
6+ yrs
Cost of Living in San Diego
Cost of Living Levelvery high
Population1.4M
Top IndustriesBiotechnology, Defense & Military, Telecommunications
vs National Average+45%
Top Employers in San Diego
QualcommIlluminaNorthrop GrummanUC San Diego HealthGeneral Atomics
How San Diego Compares
| City | Mid-Level Median | Cost of Living |
|---|---|---|
| San Diego, CA | $63,075 | very high |
| New York, NY | $63,075 | very high |
| Los Angeles, CA | $63,075 | very high |
| Chicago, IL | $52,200 | high |
| Houston, TX | $43,500 | moderate |
| Phoenix, AZ | $43,500 | moderate |
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